Poems by Martin Lammon

Martin Lammon has been publishing his poems and essays for over 30 years, but after all that time, he still loves revision even more than publication. In an interview, he once asked former U.S. Poet Laureate Donald Hall if revision could be taught. “Revision can be demanded if it cannot be taught,” Hall said. “What must be taught is the ability to see one’s errors—possibly beginning with the notion that one can err, and that spontaneity is no virtue.” The poems featured here are from a recently completed book manuscript The Other Side: Poems. And yes, they have been significantly revised over the years. Since 1997, Lammon has taught at Georgia College & State University where he holds the Fuller E. Callaway Endowed Flannery O’Connor Chair in Creative Writing, directs GC’s MFA Program, and edits the literary journal Arts & Letters. And yes, he demands that his students revise, revise, revise. Some listen, some don’t. The good students don’t even need to be told, while the best sometimes need to be reminded. Lammon is the first to say he’s been blessed to work with more outstanding students than he can count.

“The Animals Are Out”

“Heaven Sent”

“Wives’ Tales”

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